Chicago in Orlando

Good morning, Orlando! Welcome to the Orlando Signal. We're dishing out local news & fun faster than crab shacks crack claws (say that 3-times fast), and we're always happy to see you back for seconds.

Now onto today’s Orlando Signal, Thursday (weekend fun) issue:

• Strokestra

• ChicagoPalooza

• Vaudeville spectacular

• + lots of weekend recs

🛑 Don’t forget to click (or tap) the poll at the bottom of this issue so we know if we’re on the right track. Every time you vote in a poll, our cat Luna gets a little treat. 🐈

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On with it!

- Philip

3 QUICK NEWS BITS ⏲️
Mead Meets Art: Inside Orlando's Glowing New Taproom

In Orlando's Mills 50 district, Zymarium Meadery (Insta) unveils RīZōM, a dazzling new event space that transcends the typical tasting room.

At its heart lies "Intraspection," a mesmerizing light installation by co-owner Ginger Leigh, aka Synthestruct. This immersive artwork, previously seen at Leu Gardens' Dazzling Nights, now bathes mead enthusiasts in its ethereal glow every weekend.

Leigh envisions RīZōM as a cultural hub, hosting beekeeper talks, workshops, and art displays—though live music is off-limits due to zoning.

Open Friday to Sunday, 6 p.m. to midnight, RīZōM requires a mead purchase for entry. It's a bold fusion of ancient tradition and cutting-edge creativity, offering a multisensory experience that elevates the art of imbibing.

Strokestra

In Central Florida, AdventHealth's "Strokestra" program is revolutionizing stroke recovery through music.

Created by Tim Steiner and originating in England, this initiative brings together musicians and stroke patients to create healing harmonies.

Jenni Moore, a three-time stroke survivor, finds joy in playing the xylophone alongside professional musicians. The program's timing is crucial, as the region faces rising stroke cases.

While primarily aimed at uplifting spirits, experts like Dr. Anna Galloway note music's neurological healing properties, stimulating brain rewiring during recovery. Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya highlights how music engages multiple brain areas simultaneously.

For patients like Moore, Strokestra offers more than healing—it's a journey of rediscovery, helping them find new rhythms in life after stroke.

Want to see the Strokestra in action? Click right here.

Crafting Community: CityArts' Innovative Courtyard Project Takes Shape

Orlando's set for transformation as CityArts prepares to break ground on the FORDify the Arts Courtyard project. Adjacent to the historic Rogers Kiene building at Pine Street and Magnolia Avenue, this initiative will convert a former parking area into a vibrant community space.

The project includes a new gateway, ornate roof, and outdoor lighting, enhanced by architectural features salvaged from the former Church Street Ballroom.

Flynn Dobbs of the Downtown Arts District emphasizes the project's community benefits, while Ryan Young of Interstruct Design + Build highlights its significance for Orlando's arts scene.

Mayor Buddy Dyer dedicated the project at a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday. This development promises to be a pivotal addition to downtown Orlando's artistic fabric.

WEEKEND SPOT HIGHLIGHT 🔦
ChicagoPalooza (In Orlando)

📍À La Cart Orlando. 609 Irvington Ave, Orlando, FL 32803. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, July 12th – Sunday, July 14th

Get ready for ChicagoPalooza, a free to attend weekend feast celebrating Chicago's finest flavors! From July 12th to 14th, À La Cart Orlando transforms the Milk District food truck park into a Windy City wonderland, no airfare required.

Sink your teeth into authentic deep-dish pizza, snap into Chicago-style hot dogs, and sip craft beers that channel the Second City's spirit.

Whether you're a Midwest native missing home, or a local foodie seeking new thrills, ChicagoPalooza promises a taste adventure.

TOP 3 4 FUN RECS FOR THE WEEKEND 🍊
Little Shop of Horrors

📍Garden Theater. 160 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 34787. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, July 12th – Sunday, July 28th. Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays & Sundays at 2:00 pm

In a struggling flower shop, meek Seymour Krelborn discovers an unusual plant he names "Audrey II" after his secret crush. As the foul-mouthed, R&B-singing plant grows, it promises Seymour fame and fortune in exchange for blood.

Seymour's newfound success attracts Audrey's attention, freeing her from an abusive relationship. But Audrey II's appetite becomes insatiable, forcing Seymour to seek new blood sources. Too late, he uncovers the plant's extraterrestrial origins and its plan for world domination.

For over 40 years, "LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS" has captivated global audiences, winning multiple awards including the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

This dark comedy about love, ambition, and the perils of unchecked growth continues to enthrall theatergoers worldwide.

Irish Rock Music Concert

📍Central Branch Library. 215 N Oxford Rd, Casselberry, FL 32707. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, July 12th, 6:30 p.m.

Get ready for an electrifying night as the Central Branch Library hosts the Black Thorn Brigade Band for a special "after hours" Irish Rock Music event tomorrow, July 12th.

This free, adults-only gathering promises to transform the quiet halls into a pulsating hub of Celtic rock. No registration required—just show up and let the music sweep you off your feet.

It's a rare chance to experience the library's wild side, where books and rock collide in perfect harmony.

The Florida Vintage Market

📍Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company. 1300 Alden Road, Orlando, FL 32803. Map to this location.

🕐 Sunday, July 14th, 12-5 p.m.

Discover The Florida Vintage Market (Insta), a free, family-friendly outdoor shopping experience in downtown Orlando.

This unique bazaar features over 30 local vendors offering a curated mix of vintage clothing, sustainable fashion, streetwear, custom apparel, and sneakers. Artists and makers showcase their creations alongside food trucks and brewery drinks.

From fashionistas to sneakerheads, there's something for everyone. Bring the whole family, pets included, and immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind shopping adventure.

The market isn't just an event; it's a journey through eras, tastes, and local talent.

The 3rd Annual Vaudeville Spectacular

📍Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater. 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, July 13th, 7:30 p.m.

Orlando's premier Chamber Pops Orchestra and Big Band returns for its third year, presenting a dazzling vaudeville variety show. This show showcases Central Florida's finest talents, featuring the passionate Flamenco del Sol, Calvin Lester's uncanny "Bird Call," and the mesmerizing A MAGI Belly Dance.

Prepare for amazement by violin virtuoso Lisa Ferrigno, guitar wizard Jason Aylward, and aerial artist Toni Chandler as they push the boundaries of their crafts. Vocal sensation Shelley Keelor makes a triumphant return with an exciting new repertoire.

This show is journey through music, dance, and acrobatics.

Don't miss this unforgettable night of world-class entertainment that promises to be Orlando's most talked-about event of the year.

MORE WEEKEND HAPPENINGS 🎭 🥁 

Friday:

Lunch & Learn: Tales from the Collection | 12-1 p.m. | Downtown | $5 (more info)

Family Night: Middle Eastern Cuisine | 6 p.m. | College Park | $55-$65 (more info)

Arrows in Action | 6 p.m. | Downtown | $24 (more info)

152 Productions Presents: Lydia Can't Breathe, Sid Stratton, Noctus, Disorient, and Aludamin | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $15 (more info)

The Early November | 7 p.m. | Downtown | $29.50-$35 (more info)

A Night of Terror in Orlando | 7 p.m. | South Eola | $20 (more info)

Orlando Tattoo Arts Festival | Fri 2 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. and Sun 11 a.m. | $20-$40 (more info)

Summertime Slamma Jamma | Fri 6 p.m. and Sat 8 p.m. | Mills 50 | $15-$20 (more info)

Bill Bellamy | Fri  6 & 9 p.m. and Sat 5:30 & 8:30 p.m | I-Drive/Universal | $40-$70 (more info)

Saturday:

Bookmaking Art Workshop | 10:30 a.m. | Winter Park Area | Free (more info)

Orlando Girls Rock Camp Showcase | 2 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $10 (more info)

CLEO Speakers Network Orlando | 11 a.m. | Downtown | Free (more info)

Saturday Matinee Classics: Le Samouraï | 12 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $11 (more info)

Book Signing: Kate Moseman | 4 p.m. | Winter Park Area | Free (more info)

Kindred Pear Exchange July Night Market | 6 p.m. | Thornton Park | (more info)

Auditory Armory 10-Year Anniversary | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $13 (more info)

Lion Country Ferrari, Power Pants, Rude Television, Tiger Beat | 8 p.m. | Audubon Park | $15 (more info)

Let's Get Weird Story Hour | 8 p.m. | College Park | $26.50 (more info)

earth tones + lost,there @TheFalconBar | 9 p.m. | Thornton Park | $5 (more info)

Sunday:

KidFest: Cinderella | 11:30 a.m. | Winter Park Area | $11 (more info)

Ryan Devlin Quartet | 5 & 7:30 p.m. | Downtown | $20-$30 (more info)

Tasha K | 5:30 p.m. | I-Drive/Universal | $32-$62 (more info)

Orlando City B vs. Inter Miami CF II | 7 p.m. | Kissimmee | $10 (more info)

Mercedes Ruiz & Santiago Lara in DUAL | 7 p.m. | Downtown | $50 (more info)

Sexblood, Livernois, Human Factors Lab, and DJ Christina Zombie | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $15 (more info)

Marco Luque em Dilatados | 7:30 p.m. | Downtown | $30-$124 (more info)

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We’ll see you on Monday.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal